Welcome, ladies and gentlemen to another edition of “Why Snowshoe is Better in the Summer”
Just kidding- I love all the seasons at Snowshoe. Isn’t it great that we can enjoy the best of all the worlds up here??
But, onto today’s agenda: let’s talk about all our favorite summer things to do with kids at Snowshoe! And when you see the list, I mean, it’s easy to see why summer is so fantastic up at the ‘Shoe. Here we go!
*I'll also indicate free or very inexpensive items with the asterisk
Hiking
Here are two great trails for beginners and kids (that aren’t too boring for experienced hikers), and take less than an hour.
- Shavers Lake Trail*: begins just to the left of Ballhooter lift (if you’re looking at the lift with the lake at your back) and winds around the lake.
- Bear Scat Trail*: you’ll find this trail tucked back behind Snow Crest and the Sanctuary. Once you’re in the woods, various trails wind through a flat area and kids can run and play to their hearts’ content.
Play Outside
Snowshoe is the stuff childhood memories are made of- so let them be made! The spruce forests look like they are out of a movie and are so inviting to “come play!”
- Build a bonfire*: some complexes (like Loggers Run) include free, community ones (see if you can start the fire with some flint and steel for a bonus challenge)
- Build forts*: you’ll find many already started, so you can just add to the ones you find
- Identify scat*: bring a book or download an app; you’ll be surprised what animal droppings you’ll see
- Ride bikes*: doesn’t have to be downhill, just explore on bikes!
Linwood Alive
I’m going to keep riding this Linwood train, because it’s just so great! Check out all the things they have going on at this community center.
- Library*: They have a great little children’s area and will even let you check out books while you’re here.
- Community markets*: you can buy local food and goods here most days. There’s also a full farmers market on Thursdays.
- Pump track and woodsy trail*: both well maintained and available for free
- Seasonal events*: Their facebook page is regularly updated, so check for event schedules
Bike Park
It’s why a lot of people come in the summer, so it’s kind of like saying “come to Snowshoe to ski in the winter!” But don’t forget that you can get lessons, sign up for clinics, or attend various bike related events and competitions.Mountain Lodge
In the last year, ML has seen some fun, family additions.
- Indoor playground: ML just opened their new, three level climbing and play structure for some awesome indoor fun. Tickets are just $6.99 (but there are lots of packages and combo deals) and totally worth the price of entry.
- Glice rink: It’s kiiinnndddaaaa like ice skating, but a little different. Check out their site for info and costs.
- Video arcade*: there are various arcade games in the ML arcade that can be a nostalgic addition for adults and welcome technology break for kids.
Golf
Snowshoe offers two kind: disc and, as the disc golfers call it, “ball golf” (that’s just regular golf)
- Disc: There are two courses-
- Fairy Diddle*: starts at the Shavers Lake parking lot and is a full 18 holes of free fun (if you bring your own discs)
- Old Spruce*: another free course that starts just at the Brewery on the Silver Creek side
- The Raven Golf Course: This awesome course offers 9 hole packages starting at just $29. And you can call and see if they have any special kid events going on.
Cass Scenic Railroad
Ride trains or just look at them*. The very large gift shop is also fun to look around. While you’re there, you can also walk the Greenbrier Trail*. Or go fishing!
Snowshoe Activities
There are various activities that you can pay for individually or by buying summer passes.
- Bungee and rock wall: down at the lake. Good for kids and adults.
- Split Rock Pools: Indoor/outdoor heated pools, small slides, hot tubs, and sauna
- Scenic lift rides: ride Ballhooter and Western Express as much as you like
- Lake activities: kayaking, swimming, inflatable-ing, sand castling, hammocking…
Bears Den
The newly updated Bears Den inside Silvercreek offers some really fun games and activities, including ax throwing, pool, video games, and more.
Guys- I’m tired of writing. And this isn’t even all of it. The ‘shoe offers so much to do as families, especially if you’ll look past the “regular” paid activities. Just come up and enjoy the mountain.